Obama expected to attend police recruit graduation next week

WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama is expected in Columbus for the graduation of police recruits
hired with the aid of federal stimulus money.

Obama had touted the recruits, who have been on the city payroll but were told last month
they would be let go Feb. 26, as an example of why the $787 billion stimulus package is needed.

When he signed the stimulus bill into law in Denver last week, Obama said that in addition to
public works and other spending, it would prevent the layoffs of firefighters or police recruits
"like the ones in Columbus, Ohio, who were told that instead of being sworn in as officers, they
would be let go."

Mayor Michael B. Coleman said earlier this week that $1.25 million in stimulus money would
allow the recruits to graduate and hit the streets, with their salaries covered through the end of
this year at least. He thanked the president again Thursday night in his State of the City speech.

The graduation ceremony is set for Friday. The White House does not generally confirm a
presidential trip this far in advance. But a source with knowledge of the planning said the trip to
Columbus, the first for Obama since he won the White House, is expected to happen.

Deputy Chief Walter Distelzweig said a suitable location is being sought for the ceremony in
anticipation of the president's visit. The graduation will not be at the Police Training Academy,
its typical location, because the president's involvement will require a larger venue, he said.

The class had 27 recruits originally, but one left the academy in December with a medical
problem. Officials are unsure whether the person will return.

Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy, D-Columbus, could not confirm the visit, said Paul Tencher, her
spokesman.

"However, the congresswoman has heard various reports and would be honored to host President
Obama in Columbus next week," Tencher said. "She looks forward to attending the swearing-in
ceremony in either case and is proud the recovery package is already making an impact."

Coleman spokesman Dan Williamson wouldn't confirm the visit, either, but said the president
has a standing invitation from the mayor to visit the city.

Dispatch reporters John Futty and Robert Vitale contributed to
this story.